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How To Use a QR Code for Online Check-in

Learn how to generate and use QR codes. To offer guests a seamless online check-in experience with payment and ID collection.

Written by Osmara R.

QR codes in ChargeAutomation are a powerful tool for facilitating walk-in check-ins or providing guests with instant access to their Guest Portal upon arrival at the property.

🚀How to Generate and Use a QR Code

  1. Locate Your Property Link:

    • Go to Settings → Properties.

  • Find the property you want to create a QR code for.

  • In the Properties list, many users will see a QR Code icon next to the property name or within the "Action" menu (three dots).

  • Clicking this will generate a downloadable QR code image that is hard-coded to that property's check-in URL.

    • If you don't see a built-in button, you can copy the property's Guest Portal URL and use any free QR code generator to create the image.

  • Placement at the Property:

    • Reception/Lobby: Print the QR code on a sign or card at the front desk. Guests who haven't completed their check-in can scan it to start immediately.

    • In-Room: Place the QR code on a "Welcome" card or inside your digital guidebook. This gives guests quick access to their Wifi details, house rules, and upsell offers (like late check-out or breakfast) throughout their stay.

👤How it Works for the Guest

  • Scanning: The guest scans the code with their smartphone camera.

  • Identification: Since the QR code is property-specific but not booking-specific, the guest will be asked to enter their Last Name and Booking Reference (or email) to pull up their specific reservation.

  • Check-in Flow: Once identified, they are taken directly to the next incomplete step in their pre-check-in process (e.g., ID verification, signing terms, or paying a security deposit).

📈Benefits of Using QR Codes

  • Reduces Front Desk Friction: Guests can complete paperwork on their own devices while waiting.

  • Increases Upsell Revenue: By making the Guest Portal easily accessible in the room, guests are more likely to browse and purchase add-ons.

  • Legal Compliance: In regions with strict authority reporting (like Spain or Germany), the QR code ensures that even last-minute walk-ins provide the mandatory guest data immediately.

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